The week of March 17 was Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week, so it seems like a good time to speak about pulmonary rehabilitation and its benefits.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD – including chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma – is very common, affecting millions of individuals.

Because COPD affects so many, pulmonary rehabilitation has become a key factor in helping to reduce the impact of chronic lung disease. A typical pulmonary rehab program uses a comprehensive team approach to help individuals suffering from COPD by teaching them how to effectively cope with activities of daily living. An individual referred to a pulmonary rehab program by his or her physician typically undergoes an evaluation by the pulmonary rehab team, so that the program can be tailored to specific needs.

Most rehab programs contain an educational component, which includes instruction on prescribed medications, infection prevention, and individual nutritional needs. Techniques to control breathing are also taught to help the individual conserve energy and cope with daily activities such as walking up stairs – activities that someone with full lung capacity might have little or no trouble doing. Smoking cessation is also a component of some programs.

Progressive exercise is also included in pulmonary rehab. Specific exercises are taught so that the individual can continue them at home upon graduation from the program.

Good exercise habits at home can often mean fewer trips to the emergency department. Some helpful exercises include riding a stationary bike, or walking to strengthen leg muscles and increase muscle tone and flexibility, which can help with activities such as stair climbing.

An added benefit to consider: Cardiovascular exercise is important for the heart. Exercises that strengthen arm and shoulder muscles are beneficial because they can help improve breathing by strengthening the ribcage area.

Also, strengthening the upper body can help make everyday activities such as performing household chores and lifting groceries easier.

One important rule of thumb is to always consult a physician before starting an exercise program.

Individuals graduating from the pulmonary rehab program at St. Joseph Hospital are also encouraged to continue their exercises through a special program. St. Joseph Hospital, along with the YMCA and Husson College, offer a pulmonary fitness program at the YMCA Fitness Center on Taft Street. The program is offered twice a week and is staffed by volunteers from all three facilities.

In addition to this exercise follow-up program, pulmonary rehab graduates are invited to attend a monthly Better Breather’s Club. This is a free support group in which those with chronic pulmonary disease have opportunities to share their concerns and successes. A guest speaker also helps educate participants about how to cope with their diseases.

For more information about St. Joseph Healthcare’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, YMCA Pulmonary Fitness Program, or Better Breather’s Club, call 262-1809.

If you suffer from chronic pulmonary disease, please know that you can learn to live a much fuller life by following a comprehensive program including exercise and proper nutrition.

Diana Galutia is a public affairs associate at St. Joseph Hospital.